November 16, 2022

Ortega Wins Assembly 20, DA Race Close, Chan Leads EBMUD Pack

By Michael Singer & Mike McGuire CASTRO VALLEY FORUM

Liz Ortega is moving from heading organized labor in Alameda County to represent ing the southern half of it in the State Assembly’s District 20.

As of Monday, at 5 p.m., Ortega received 33,210 or 59.19 % of the vote while her opponent, Dublin councilmem ber Shawn Kumagai gathered 22,901 votes or 40.81 %. While all precincts have reported in and mail-in ballots continue to be counted, Kumagai conced ed last week, and Ortega has claimed victory.

“I am extremely humbled and grateful to lead Assem bly 20 and the people in it,” Ortega told The Forum. “I said I would hit the ground running and I am currently on my way to Sacramento.”

A San Leandro resident, Ortega became the frst Latina to head the Alameda County Central Labor Council after decades of working for labor

unions. She had previously spent fve years as a Sacramen to lobbyist for the American Federation of State, County,

and Municipal Employees, a bit public-employee union.

“I heard a lot of hope and need on the campaign trail,”

Ortega said. “Every day I would run into someone who had different stories looking to protect their civil rights. I heard from women and families that had a lot of heart-wrenching stories of coming out of the pandemic but were hopeful when they heard my story. I’m a working mother in the East Bay. I think people also found me relatable because I have a history of getting things done.”

Ortega will replace longtime incumbent Bill Quirk, who decided not to run for re-election. Assembly 20’s district lines were just redrawn following the 2020 Census. It now includes Castro Valley, San Leandro, Ashland, Cher ryland, San Lorenzo, Fairview, Hayward, Sunol, and Union City.

She says her top priority in Sacramento will be an equi table and affordable recovery from the pandemic. She also supports affordable housing for all, including work ing people. see RACE on page 10

MAC MEETING

Outdoor School Mulled

By Amy Sylvestri CASTRO VALLEY FORUM

The Castro Valley Munici pal Advisory Council (MAC) heard further discussion of a somewhat controversial pro posed project to operate an out door school for kids at 17015 Cull Canyon Road during their Monday night meeting.

The Mosaic Project wants to open “the Outdoor Project” on 37 acres in the Canyonlands. The camp would include an outdoor recreation facility and offer a multi-day nature-ori ented experience for school children.

At Monday night’s meeting, the MAC didn’t entertain ques tions and comments about the merit of the project or Mosaic, but rather only information re garding the draft Environmen tal Impact Report (EIR) for the project which has been see MAC on page 10

Raymond, Howard Lead CVUSD Board Votes

By Michael Singer CASTRO VALLEY FORUM

Castro Valley voters are currently favoring Sara Ray mond and Gary Howard as their choices for School Board of Trustees as the mail-in ballots continue to be counted.

Final counts are expected to be certifed on December 8.

As of Monday, at 5 p.m., Raymond had 5,010 votes or 36.65%. Howard generated 4,610 votes or 33.73%. Tina Sachs received 4,048 votes or 29.62%. The top two candidates are expected to be seated and installed at the December 14

Castro Valley Unifed School District (CVUSD) meeting.

The election is notable in that all three candidates ran on platforms of improving student achievement, maximizing equity, and providing transpar ent budgeting. Each candidate was endorsed by community leaders, current CVUSD board members, and teachers.

“I want to thank everyone who supported me and every one who voted in the election,” Howard told the Forum. “It’ll be a great honor to return to the school board, and there is a lot of work to do. We need to fnish the recovery from the

pandemic, and then, we need to make our schools even better. I look forward to continuing that work.”

All candidates said they

spent a lot of time listening to the community and reaching out through various events and of course old-fashioned neighborhood visits.

“It was important to me that I stay focused on what I was offering as a candidate and true to my values,” Raymond told the Forum. “I feel that my team and I ran a positive campaign. I’m especially happy with the high volume of one-to-one contact that we were able to make with people in the community. Those con versations were so rewarding to me and helped me get to know Castro Valley in a new way. Should the numbers hold up as the vote count is fnalized, I’m very much looking forward to getting to work on behalf of see CVUSD on page 4

Sara Raymond Gary Howard

Liz Ortega takes State Assembly’s District 20.

MONTHLY

DON JOSE’S MEXICAN RESTAURANT

County Seeks Public Input to Develop Mental Health Plan

As many as 1-in-10 adults in Alameda County have likely experienced severe psychological distress, a rising trend as the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic continue.

To improve current community-based mental health programs and prepare for future needs, the Alameda County Health Care Services Agency’s Behavioral Health Care Services division is conducting an online survey to help shape its three-year plan.

“It’s important for us to hear from people of all ages with mental health challenges, their family members, and community service providers,” says

Dr. Karyn L. Tribble, Director of Alameda County Behavioral Health Care Services. “We value their input in preparing a plan that best meets community needs.”

The data collected from the online survey, along with a variety of community events is expected to help guide a broad range of services and support, including prevention, early intervention, and innovation. The initiative and funding are part of the 2004 Mental Health Services Act (MHSA), a statewide proposition (Prop 63) approved by voters with the intent to transform the mental health system, increase

services, and improve the quality of life for Californians living with mental illness.

Last fiscal year, MHSA funding provided outreach, services, and support to more than 140,000 people experiencing mental illness in Alameda County. MHSA also funds infrastructure, technology, and training elements to effectively support an enhanced mental health system.

The survey is available in English, Spanish, and Traditional Chinese through January 31, 2023. People who have lived with mental health issues and their families are strongly encouraged to participate.

Visit https://acmhsa.org/ community-input/

By Michael Singer CASTRO VALLEY FORUM

Gopher holes, patchy grass, inadequate lighting, and outof-date concession stands may be a thing of the past thanks to a more than $14 million investment to spruce up Canyon Middle School sports fields.

The agreement between the Hayward Area Recreation and Park District (HARD) Board and the Castro Valley Unified School District (CVUSD) Board was approved by both entities at their general meetings on November 7th and 9th, respectively.

The agreement outlines that the CVUSD and HARD will jointly fund the design and construction of improvements. CVUSD said it will fund $4,845,290 for the projects, and HARD will fund $10,000,000.

“By working together our agencies will be able to construct and operate a new complex that meets the high demand for sports facilities in our Districts,” said HARD General Manager James Wheeler. “This lighted, all-weather facility will allow for safe, equitable, quality sports programming for the community and the region on a year-round basis.”

The improvements will include the installation of four synthetic turf fields used for soccer and flag football and two waterproof covers one for the baseball field and one for the softball field. The makeover also includes the installation of field lighting, parking lot improvements, and joint use of the existing concession building and restrooms. CVUSD will handle the administration of all construction-related contracts, with HARD agreeing to pay its proportionate share of project costs.

“This agreement is a remarkable example of agencies see FIELDS on back page

Members of the Castro Valley Unified School District Board of Trustees and Hayward Area Recreation and Park District are teaming up to improve the sports fields at Canyon Middle School with lights, synthetic turf, and other enhancements.

Parade Lights the Boulevard

By Michael Singer CASTRO VALLEY FORUM

The lights were shining bright at this year’s Castro Valley Light Parade. The Boulevard was packed with 80 Entries, 2,500 people participating in the floats, and more than 7,000 people watching along the sidelines. Entrants included floats from Castro Valley Schools, Tap Dancing Christmas Trees, old-time cars, this year’s Rowell Ranch Pro Rodeo queen, Olivia Sherman, and Grand National Rodeo Queen Julia Bernard. Local businesses were also represented including Jenn’s Cupcakes and Parties and Classy Canine Wiggle Rumps. The parade was capped off by the arrival see PARADE on page 10

Sheriff’s Report

Compiled by Michael Singer CASTRO VALLEY FORUM

Wanted Man with Drugs

Sunday, November 13: at 9:53 p.m., Sheriff’s deputies arrested a 32-year-old man from Castro Valley as part of a warrant issued for his capture. The man was previously charged with assault on a family member. Deputies served the warrant in the parking lot of a grocery store on Castro Valley Boulevard near Redwood Road. During questioning, deputies discovered illegal narcotics and related drug paraphernalia in his pockets. The man was taken to Santa Rita Jail.

Spousal Assault Friday, November 11: at 10:37 p.m., a 911 call about a loud and aggressive-sounding argument sent deputies to a home on Seven Hills Road near Lamson Road. There, they arrested a 24-year-old man from Castro Valley on suspicion of spousal assault. Deputies handcuffed the man and took him into custody. The victim was treated at the scene.

Receiving a Stolen Vehicle Thursday, November 10: at 7:07 p.m., deputies arrested a 25-year-old man from Castro Valley on suspicion of receiving a stolen vehicle. The man was traveling on Castro Valley Boulevard near Lake Chabot Road when deputies pulled him over and identified that the vehicle was stolen. The man was taken into custody. see REPORT on page 10

CASTRO VALLEY FORUM

Linda Sandsmark

Mike

Amy

Contributors:

Thousands watched as The Tap Dancing Christmas Trees (above) and many other CV Light Parade participants lit up the Boulevard for it’s 10th anniversary.

Classy Canine Wiggle Rumps received a CV Light Parade ribbon for “Best Use of Lights Gold Award.”

PHOTOS COURTESY OF CATHY BRESLOW/BRESLOW IMAGING

Funeral Service for Lester Lee Worley

CVUSD: Raymond, Howard

continued from front page the families and teachers of CVUSD.”

While Castro Valley has a strong foundation for pro ducing a quality education, those that sit on the Board of Trustees will still have many issues to tackle in the next few years.

A California Department of Education report released in October revealed Castro Val ley saw 68.4% of all its public school students meet or exceed English Language standards (nearly unchanged since 2019). Math scores, however, took a 5.5% dip to 57.7% this year, down from 63.2% in 2019.

The Board will also need to continue to allocate the rest of the $123 million for building and renovations raised by Measure G Bond (2016). This includes the sports felds at Creekside and Canyon Middle Schools are on the list as well as additional facilities upgrades at Castro Valley and Redwood High School.

More than 97% of the district’s $129.1 million budget comes from State funding and yet, CVUSD receives the least funding per student of any district in Alameda County.

As for spending, $102.4 mil lion, or 84% goes to salaries and benefts (teachers, staff, and administrators) with the remaining $19.6 million (16%) being spent on everything else.

ARIES (March 21 to April 19): This is a good time to speak out on a diffcult situation. You’re known for your honesty, so people will listen and, perhaps, begin to make long-needed changes.

TAURUS (April 20 - May 20): The Bovine’s sharp business sense alerts you to question the positions of those trying to push the Bull into a deal. Demand to see proof of what they profess..

GEMINI (May 21 to June 20): Your quick thinking helps you get out of a troubling situation that was suddenly thrust upon you. Later on, you can expect to learn more about why it happened.

CANCER (June 21 - July 22): You might feel you’ve dotted all your i’s and crossed all your t’s regarding that upcoming deal. But there might be some facts you’ve ignored. Check again.

LEO (July 23 - August 22): Time for the Lion to be more physically active. It will help shake off any lingering Leonine lethargy and restore your energy levels so that you’ll be prepared for what lies ahead.

VIRGO (August 23 - Sept. 22): Helping those in need at this time is laudable. But don’t ignore your own needs, especially where it concerns your health. A medical checkup is a wise move.

LIBRA (Sept. 23 - October 22): Good news: Your outspoken views about a controversial on-the-job situation could fnd unexpectedly strong support from a most unlikely workplace faction.

SCORPIO (October 23 - November 21): You might have to draw on your reservoir of spiritual strength to help someone special through a diffcult time. Your loving attitude makes all the difference.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22 - Dec. 21): Your proven leadership qualities make you the perfect person to take on an important workplace task. Don’t shy away from the challenge.

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22 - Jan. 19): Although some compromise might need to be reached regarding your stand on an important issue, you’ll still be able to get the most crucial points across.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20 - Feb. 18): A chance to make a career change carries both positive and uncertain possibilities. Best advice: Check it out thoroughly, and don’t be rushed into a decision.

PISCES (Feb. 19 - March 20): You’re still a staunch supporter of one side of an important issue. But be prepared to deal with new information that could cause you to question your current stand.

With the voter’s passage of Prop 28 this month, the CVUSD Board will likely need to prepare for additional state funding earmarked for arts and music education in K-12 public schools.

Schools would be required to report how funding was used to directly beneft stu dents. Larger schools would be required to spend 80% of the funding to employ new staff and 20% on training and supplies.

CROSSWORD PUZZLE ANSWERS

COMMUNITY CALENDAR

Thursday, Nov. 17

CVEA Chamber’s Monthly Mixer

The Castro Valley/Eden Area Chamber of Commerce will be holding it’s monthly mixer tomorrow Nov. 17 from 5:30 to 7 pm at Don Jose’s Mexican Restaurant & Lounge located at 3420 Village Dr. in Castro Valley (a 33 year member of the CVEA Chamber!). Appetizers and a no-host bar will be provid ed. We hope to see you there!

Saturday, Nov. 19

Holiday Boutique

Sponsored by Soroptimist International of the East Bay, the Holiday Boutique is from 10 am to 4 pm at the Hill & Valley Women’s Club located at 1808 B Street in Hayward. Shop for unique holiday gifts featuring holiday treats, woodworking, paper crafts, journals, feece blankets, aprons, stuffng stuffers, holiday decorations, Mary Kay and Pampered Chef products and more. Refreshments will be served. Prize drawing will be held. Holiday Poinsettias may be pre-ordered for Christmas. For more info call Donna Whitehouse at (510) 999-2911.

Saturday, Nov. 19

Thanksgiving Dinner in Hayward

American Legion Post #68 and the American Legion Auxiliary #68 will be holding their Annual Thanksgiving Dinner on Saturday, Nov. 19 , from 5 pm to 8 pm at the Veterans Memorial Building located at 22737 Main Street, Hayward. There will be music provided by the Oasis Big band. Mon etary donations accepted. All are welcome. Any questions may be directed to Alfredo at: 510-695-3211.

Saturday, Nov. 19

Toys for Tots Fundraiser Dance

The Moose Lodge #1491, VFW Post 9601, Castro Valley Adult School and the United States Marine Corps. Reserve - Ala meda are sponsoring a Toys For Tots dance on Saturday, Nov. 19 from 6 pm to 9 pm. Admission is one or more unwrapped toys per person. Live music for dancing will be provided by “Route 66” Big Band and “In Full Swing” Quintet. The event will be held at the Castro Valley Moose Lodge #1491 located at 20835 Rutledge Road, CV.

Monday, Nov. 28

Eden Garden Club Meeting

Eden Garden Club meets on Monday Nov. 28, from 9:30 am to 11:30 am at the Castro Valley United Methodist Church lo cated at 19806 Wisteria Street. Speaker will be Lary Huls, a Certifed Aesthetic Pruner, Landscaper, and designer/builder of an all native Butterfy Garden in San Leandro. Lary will be sharing pruning tips of when where and how. Guests are always welcome to join us. Eden Garden Club’s members share plant exchange, pick a prize and gifts for silent auction. Donations are gratefully accepted for Penny Pines to plant pine trees in the National Forests. Masks are encour aged. Please call 510-397-1268 for more information.

Friday - Sunday, Dec. 2 - 4

Friends of CV Library Book Sale

The Friends of the Castro Valley Library will hold an indoor book sale Friday through Sunday, Dec. 2 - 4. This sale will feature fction and mystery books, all categories of nonfction books, children’s books, DVDs and music CD’s. Most books are $1 or less; children’s books are 25¢. We will have a nice selection of gift quality, antiquarian, and special books at slightly higher (but still bargain) prices. Member Preview is Friday night from 6 to 8 p.m. Memberships may be purchased or renewed at the door. Saturday hours are 10 am to 3 pm Sunday ($5 bag day) hours are 1 pm to 4 pm. The Castro Valley Library is located at 3600 Norbridge Ave. Proceeds pay for library programs and amenities that would not otherwise be avail able. This is our frst 3-day sale since before the pandemic! Please call 510-733-3285 or visit our website for more information.

Saturday, Dec. 3

Holiday Tea and Christmas Boutique

Castro Valley United Methodist Church, 19806 Wisteria St. Castro Valley, will be hosting a Holiday High Tea and Christmas Boutique on Saturday, Dec. 3. Reservations can be made for 11 am, 1 pm, and 3 pm by contacting Donna Driver by email at: ddriv erdriver@yahoo.com. When requesting your reservation please provide you name, email, phone number, number of people in your party and the time you would like to reserve. The tea will consist of a variety of teas, savory, sandwiches, and deserts by Baptista Baking Company. Vendors at the boutique will have a variety of items for sale such as handmade items, jewelry, pottery, scarfs, honey and products made from honey, etc. Seating is limited so it is recommended that you make your reservations early.

Saturday, Dec. 3

FirstPres Hayward Holiday Market Get a head start on your holiday shop ping by coming to our Holiday Market on Saturday, Dec. 3, from 12 pm to 5pm at FirstPres Hayward, located at 2490 Grove Way in Castro Valley. Everyone Deserves has partnered with Smalltown Society to provide live music and J-Boss Bakery to sell delicious desserts! FirstPres Kids will have an activity for kids and Santa will be stop ping by! We will also be spotlighting local makers, crafters, artists, small businesses and brands. Join us! For more information visit: www.frstpreshayward.com/everyone-de serves.

Sunday, Dec. 11

Castro Valley Orchestra: Free Concert Castro Valley Orchestra will present a free concert on Sunday, Dec. 11 at 2 pm at Castro Valley Center for the Arts, 19501 Redwood Road, Castro Valley. Works by Berlioz, Schubert, and Saint-Saens will be presented. Flautist Beverly Johnson and clarinetist Michael Wilson will be featured. A reception will follow the concert. Masking and distance protocols will be observed.

Lester Lee Worley, a 45 year business owner of Worley’s Home Design Center, has passed away on Wednesday November 9th and is with his Lord and Savior Jesus Christ at age 82. A funeral service will be Tuesday, Nov. 22 at 10:30 am at Redwood Chapel 19300 Redwood Road CV

HOROSCOPE by Salomé © 2019 King Features Synd., Inc.

Three Exercises You Should Never Do After the Age of 50

By Mitch Rothbardt SPECIAL TO THE FORUM

I hate articles with titles like this. They’re always fear-based and assume that once people reach a certain age, they turn into fragile little Faberge eggs, ready to shatter at any moment. They also don’t consider that everyone’s different. That being said, there ARE some exercises that you shouldn’t do after 50. It’s just that they’re not the kind of exercises you normally think of.

The ones I’m talking about do long-term damage. In some cases, the damage is irreparable.

Let’s get to it.

1. Complaining about your age.

Do you know how often I hear someone tell me that some ache or pain is because of their age? Every day.

I rarely hear anything so deflating and disempowering. It would be one thing if it were correct, but it almost never is. It would be silly of me to say that age has no physical effect on our body, but that effect is almost always monstrously overstated.

Here’s the deal: If you take care of your body, it’ll take care of you. End of story.

Train to get stronger, get your mindset right, and you’ll find it amazing how little age matters anymore.

2. Worrying about what you ate last night/weekend.

Why do people think it’s not ok to enjoy what you eat? All we hear from the media is how overweight we are, so people stress like mad over what they should and do put in their mouths.

Let me suggest something a little crazy here.

All that stress is worse for you than eating a cookie or a piece of bread.

Let me suggest something even crazier.

If you continue to deny and demonize these foods, you’re much more likely to experience a pretty big backlash from yourself when you inevitably eat 1, or more likely, 10 of them.

That backlash is going to be disempowering and mentally damaging.

3. Not strength training.

What do people really fear about aging? Becoming fragile. Losing their independence. Losing their mental faculties. Strength training helps with all of this.

Too many people don’t strength train or really give it their all in the gym because they’re afraid of getting hurt, but with proper form, strength training is very safe.

More than that, it’s the most important thing you can do as you get older!

Do you want to be able to get right back up when you fall with no injuries or worries?

Start strength training.

I hope you get the point I’m trying to get across. These 3 “exercises” are examples of common fear-based traps people fall into. Now that you’re aware of them you’ll be able to skip right past them just like playing hopscotch.

Mitch Rothbardt is the owner and head trainer at Castro Valley Fitness. Have a fitness question you’d like answered? Reach him by email: Mitch@ CastroValleyFitness.com

Senior Q&A: Are You Missing Out on Federal, State Benefits?

Q. Is there any resource on the Internet which has a compilation of benefit programs for seniors, all in one place and that’s easy to use?

By Gene L. Osofsky SPECIAL TO THE FORUM

A. Yes! You may be unaware that seniors have access to hundreds of federal and state benefits programs that may assist them. Many retirees meet the requirements for these aids, yet do not know they are eligible and miss opportunities to receive assistance. Others can feel overwhelmed by complex application processes.

For this reason, the National Council on Aging (“NCOA”) has created a great resource accessible at www. BenefitsCheckUp.Org. It connects older adults and people with disabilities with federal and state benefits programs that can help pay for their health care, medicine, food, utilities, and more. You can see what’s available in your area by checking out its website and entering your ZIP code.

This online resource helps elders identify those federal and state assistance programs for which they are qualified. The database is free to access, and the National Council on Aging ensures that personal information people enter into the website remains confidential.

The website not only provides older people with individualized reports regard-

ing assistance programs that would benefit them, but by visiting the site you can get a personalized eligibility

report detailing the benefits programs for which you may qualify. The personalized report also details the information they may need for each program before applying, including contact information for the agencies administering the assistance.

On the BenefitsCheckUp website, you merely enter your information into the database, starting with your ZIP code. Then select the programs that interest you. These programs offer support for many services, including the following: Health care and medication Food and nutrition, Housing and utilities, Aging in place and in-home care, Income Disability services, Long-term care (such as skilled nursing facilities), Discounts and activities, Tax help, Crisis (legal and

general assistance), Veterans’ programs.

After the website creates the personalized report, you can save it as a PDF document and email it to yourself or a loved one. This report can be a great resource for other family members and caregivers, who can then use it as a guide to assist you or your loved ones in applying for state or federal benefits for you or other family members.

This easy-to-use resource can help older adults and their families alleviate the stress associated with applying to state and federal benefits programs. Visit the BenefitsCheckUp website to use the tool. Why not give it a try?

Gene L. Osofsky is an Elder Law and Estate Planning attorney in the East Bay. For more articles for Seniors, visit his website at www.LawyerForSeniors.com. He wishes to thank Harry Margolis, Esq., of Mass. for calling his attention to this resource and for permission to modify and publish this article for seniors.

Handling Holiday Grief

For people who have experienced the death of a loved one, the winter holiday season can be painful. Grief at this time may intensify feelings of loneliness from isolation, or anxiety about being asked how you are dealing with the loss of your loved one.

Hope Hospice offers a free workshop to discuss healthy coping strategies. The interactive event will be offered over Zoom. Please call the Grief Support Department at (925) 829-8770 to reserve your spot and obtain event logon information.

OVER THE AGE OF 50? Here’s the deal: If you take care of your body, it’ll take care of you. End of story.

REAL ESTATE GALLERY REAL ESTATE GALLERY

REAL ESTATE REALITY

By Carl Medford, CRS Special to the Times

GUEST COMMENTARY

Top 10 Spending Don’ts

If there was any doubt we are heading into a recession, Meta, Amazon, Microsoft, Twitter, Snapchat, Intel, Lyft and more are announcing layoffs and hiring freezes. If you have been waiting to buy a home, opportunity may be ahead. To prepare for that purchase and navigate the impending downturn, we suggest “10 Don’ts.”

1 Don’t buy something because it’s on sale. If you have managed to live without it until now, you can continue to live without it until we get through the current financial crisis.

2 Don’t buy with credit. You will need to maintain your cash reserves over the next number of months to make it through the recession. If you cannot

justify paying cash for it now, then don’t buy it.

3 Don’t buy something unless it is critical to your current survival. We often confuse the words ‘need’ and ‘want.’ Unless it is a critical medical need or something similar, you should be able to survive without it.

4 Don’t buy anything new when used will do. Buy used instead of new AND pay cash. If you do not have the cash for the purchase, then it is best to wait until you do.

5 Don’t buy two when you need one. Do not be lured into the trap of buying more than you actually need.

6 Don’t buy the most expensive version. Do not fall into the trap of buying

a luxury item when you cannot really afford it.

7 Don’t make impulse purchases.

An impulse purchase is something you buy in the spur of the moment that you either were not planning on buying or did not include in your budget. Resist the urge. Ask the question, “Do I really need this or just want it?”

8 Don’t continue to pay for things and services you do not need.

Go through all your subscriptions and start chopping.

9 Don’t replace, repair. Whether it is the roof on your house or your car, it is better to repair, in most cases, than replace. Figure out a way to live with what you currently have and only spend money on true emergencies.

10 Don’t buy bling. Seriously. This is pride at its worst. Don’t bust your budget buying bling. Stop showing off and put your money where it really matters.

Be wise in the days that lie ahead: opportunity is coming, make sure you prepare NOW.

Carl Medford is a licensed Realtor with Keller Williams Realty and a licensed general contractor. This article is sponsored by the Central County Marketing Association.

Faulty Faucet Causes Homeowner Headache

By Samantha Mazzotta Special to the Forum

Q: We self-installed a kitchen faucet last year, an expensive single-lever unit with a faucet that curves up several inches high so that there’s plenty of room for pots and pans underneath. For several weeks now, whenever I turn off the water, a thin stream of water continues trickling out of the faucet for several minutes. I make sure to push the lever all the way down when I turn it off, but that doesn’t fix it. How do we repair this?

er through the number given on the manual or warranty card will connect you with a troubleshooting department that can walk you through additional steps to determine whether a replacement cartridge is needed.

faucet model at the home-improvement store.

As the housing market adjusts to rapidly tightening monetary policy, mortgage rates again surpassed seven percent. The housing market is the most interest-rate sensitive segment of the economy, and the impact rates have on homebuyers continues to evolve. Home sales have declined significantly and, as we approach year-end, they are not expected to improve.

A: If you saved the manufacturer instructions or warranty card, dig that paper out and look for a customer service number.

The most likely problem with the faucet is a faulty cartridge, and in a unit that was only purchased about a year ago, that part should be covered in the faucet’s warranty.

Contacting the manufactur-

If you can’t find those documents, go to the manufacturer’s website and look up the faucet model – a manual may be available online along with a contact number. Or, if it’s out of warranty but you have the receipt, contact the store where you bought the faucet; some home-improvement stores have return or parts replacement policies in place for many of their items, particularly pricier ones.

If the manufacturer (or the store) agrees that it’s a cartridge issue and is covered, it will send you a replacement cartridge. A new set of O-rings also should be included; if not, you’ll want to purchase the correct-size rings for your

The beauty of a cartridge faucet is that compared to older valve-type faucets, replacement is almost a breeze. You don’t have to struggle with re-seating the valve stem – praying that you haven’t ground the re-seating tool around too far. Instead, you just pop in the new cartridge and replace the faucet seals. You shouldn’t have to worry about servicing that faucet again for several years.

There are a number of online videos that detail the replacement of a kitchen faucet cartridge, which should help you with the repair.

Home Tip: Purchase a set of O-rings or seals for each type of faucet in your home, and tape the bag of replacements to the side or back of each sink cabinet so you have them on hand.

3 bedrooms, formal dining , hardwood oors and replace. Huge detached 4+ car garage/workshop. Room to add on, possible ADU, and side yard access to the back. Call Trish 510 367-7999 Happy Thanksgiving

RECENT HOME SALES

Total:

2402 Stanton Hill Road 94546:

$450,000

21103 Gary Drive #313a 94546: $673,000 [2 BD - 1,100 SF - 1993 21331 Hobert Street 94546:

$790,000 [2 BD - 941 SF - 1947 3816 Wilson Avenue 94546:

$990,000 [2 BD - 1,022 SF - 1940 21268 Tyee Street 94546: $990,000 [3 BD - 1,249 SF - 1947

5370 Briar Ridge Drive 94552:

$1,100,000 [1,572 SF - 1978 19119 Parsons Avenue 94546:

$1,110,000 [3 BD - 1,296 SF - 1948 3513 Northwood Drive 94546:

$1,270,000 [4 BD - 1,630 SF - 1953 5267 Rahlves Drive 94546:

$1,400,000 [3 BD - 1,238 SF - 1955 22144 East Lyndon Loop 94552:

$1,455,000 [3 BD - 2,328 SF - 1998 18973 Sandy Road 94546:

$1,550,000 [4 BD - 2,066 SF - 1947

22577 Princeton Place 94552:

$1,750,000 [4 BD - 2,278 SF - 1999 5946 Castlebrook Drive 94552:

$1,875,000 [4 BD - 2,196 SF - 1986

18858 West Cavendish Drive 94552: $1,950,000 [4 BD - 2,078 SF - 1978

675 Newbury Lane #344 94544: $450,000 [1 BD - 643 SF - 1988 21228 Gary Drive #312 94546: $510,000 [1 BD - 808 SF - 1982 2047 Everglade Street 94545: $571,000 [4 BD - 1,294 SF - 1955 25181 Copa Del Oro Drive #128 94545: $579,000 [2 BD - 865 SF - 1991 1315 A Street #309 94541: $610,000 [2 BD - 1,080 SF - 1984 21062 Gary Drive #116 94546: $630,000 [2 BD - 1,070 SF - 1980 595 Blossom Way #15 94541: $680,000 [2 BD - 1,077 SF - 1989 22103 Vista Del Plaza Lane #8 94541: $700,000 [2 BD - 1,482 SF - 1982 27492 Ponderosa Court 94545: $720,000 [3 BD - 1,254 SF - 1970 22154 Montgomery Street 94541: $775,000 [2 BD - 1,077 SF - 1929 674 Kingsford Way 94541: $836,000 [3 BD - 1,381 SF - 2003 22868 Charing Street 94541: $850,000 [3 BD - 1,333 SF - 2003 391 Rhythm Lane 94544: $883,000 [2 BD - 1,501 SF - 2020 2800 Pickford Place 94541: $885,000 [2 BD - 982 SF - 1987

24555 Long Court 94545: $895,000 [3 BD - 1,402 SF - 1984 603 Plaza Place 94541: $900,000 [2 BD - 1,595 SF - 2004 25009 2nd Street 94541: $975,000 [2 BD - 1,668 SF - 1979 27781 Dickens Avenue 94544:

$1,050,000 [4 BD - 2,062 SF - 1954 2118 Cotati Street 94542: $1,251,000 [4 BD - 2,160 SF - 1950 27411 Palmwood Avenue 94545: $1,305,000 [5 BD - 1,991 SF - 1956 23055 Eddy Street 94541: $1,310,000 [3 BD - 1,744 SF - 1954 24552 Sybil Avenue 94542: $1,400,000 [7 BD - 3,064 SF - 1970 2679 Beachwood Street 94545: $2,070,000 [4 BD - 3,031 SF - 2004 2736 Spindrift Court 94545: $2,160,000 [3,197 SF - 2005 2728 Breaker Lane 94545: $2,256,500 [5 BD - 4,086 SF - 2004 28848 Bailey Ranch Road 94542: $2,350,000 [5 BD - 3,133 SF - 2000 28859 Bailey Ranch Road 94542: $2,500,000 [5 BD - 3,238 SF - 2003 30 Stirling Way 94542: $2,550,000 [4 BD - 4,358 SF - 2017

SAN LEANDRO

Total: 15 – Average Price: $982,966 High: $1,800,000 – Low: $470,000

398 Parrott Street #108 94577: $470,000 [2 BD - 980 SF - 1976 1053 Douglas Court 94577: $558,000 [2 BD - 832 SF - 1942 14463 Doolittle Drive 94577: $616,500 [3 BD - 1,060 SF - 1979

1550 Bancroft Avenue #213 94577: $655,000 [2 BD - 1,448 SF - 1976

752 Woodgate Court 94579: $665,000 [3 BD - 1,356 SF - 1975

959 Karol Way 94577: $825,000 [4 BD - 1,881 SF - 1958

951 Dillo Street 94578: $830,000 [3 BD - 1,537 SF - 1946

14615 Juniper Street 94579:

$950,000 [3 BD - 1,096 SF - 1953

2221 Atlantus Court 94579: $1,025,000 [3 BD - 1,557 SF - 1997 14436 Acapulco Road 94577: $1,030,000 [3 BD - 1,626 SF - 1962 1550 Purdue Street 94579:

$1,150,000 [3 BD - 1,436 SF - 1953

350 Sybil Avenue 94577: $1,180,000 [2 BD - 1,438 SF - 1910

769 Joaquin Avenue 94577:

$1,430,000 [2 BD - 1,817 SF - 1915 2358 Seacrest Court 94579: $1,560,000 [4 BD - 2,778 SF - 1999 2673 Lakeview Drive 94577: $1,800,000 [3 BD - 2,636 SF - 1965

SAN LORENZO

Total: 9 – Average Price: $903,888 High: $1,195,000 – Low: $555,000

17531 Wickman Place 94580: $555,000 [2 BD - 1,168 SF - 1971 17042 Hesperian Boulevard 94580:

$780,000 [3 BD - 1,000 SF - 1944

17025 Via Piedras 94580: $800,000 [3 BD - 1,332 SF - 1947

866 Elgin Street 94580: $820,000 [3 BD - 1,056 SF - 1951

15871 Corte Geraldo 94580: $850,000 [3 BD - 1,143 SF - 1955

17257 Via Melina 94580: $975,000 [3 BD - 1,031 SF - 1951

564 Colby Street 94580: $1,010,000 [3 BD - 1,273 SF - 1950

16171 Via Milos 94580: $1,150,000 [4 BD - 1,226 SF - 1955

15738 Via Seco 94580: $1,195,000 [3 BD - 1,596 SF - 1955

Spray

For a bumper harvest of broccoli, pinch out the main shoot a month after planting. This will result in fewer—but larger—side shoots and the biggest overall yield. Cutting the main shoot after the head has already formed will result in more side shoots, but they will be smaller in size.

Set out garlic, onions and shallots from sets, planting them where they can dry out for the month before harvest next June or July.

Mulch

Stop watering and feeding roses. Prune lightly to remove long, bloomed-out canes, but hold off hard pruning until January when the bushes are fully dormant.

Wild owers

Now that shade and ornamental trees have shed their leaves, their need for pruning to correct any problems is readily apparent by their fully exposed branches. Though pruning can be done any time in fall and winter, there are good reasons for doing it now to eliminate potential hazards of weak, broken or diseased limbs crashing down in the storms that will be coming in the next few weeks. Major problems with trees should be left to professional arborists.

Vegetables

Cool-season perennial vegetables may be planted now — artichokes, asparagus and rhubarb.

ANNOUNCEMENTS

CONTRACTOR SERVICE

Castro Valley Forum on Wednesday and the San Leandro Times on Thursday. You can also save

by placing your ad on our website at castrovalleyforum.com or sanleandrotimes.com. We’ll call you for your credit or debit card info for payment. To place an ad by phone call Patrick Vadnais at 510-614-1560, Mon-Fri 9 a.m. - 1 p.m.

CHILD CARE LICENSED

Hummingbird Cottage Daycare Castro Valley INFANTS WELCOME TEXTKim 802-747-8969.

located in Castro Valley tiny babies welcome Text 802-747-8969

CONCRETE SERVICE

*MPCONCRETE. Driveways, Patio, Retaining Walls, Stamped Concrete, Asphalt, Hauling. Lic.#1054154. Milo 510-502-9336.

S.L.CONCRETE SERVICE Driveways, Sidewalks, Stamped Concrete, Retaining Walls, Asphalt, Paving Stones. Lic.#982202. 510856-8937.

NOTICETO READERS

California law requires that contractors taking jobs that total $500 or more (labor or materials) be licensed by the Contractors State License Board. State Law also requires that contractors include their license number on all advertising. Advertisers appearing on this page without a license number indicate that the contractor is not licensed. You can check the status of your licensed contractor at www.cslb.ca.gov or (800)321-2752. Unlicensed contractors taking jobs that total less than $500 must state in their advertisements that they are not licensed by the Contractors State License Board.

EMPLOYMENT WANTED

22 year old with EMT, CPR & Security Guard Card certifications seeks full time employment. I have excellent references. Please email me at: rogerdouglasvadnais@gmail.com

FENCES/DECKS

FENCE LEANING? Don’t replace... repair and save! Call Randy 510706-6189.

SPECIALIZING IN WOOD FENCES, DECKS & RETAINING WALLS. Replace or repair, paved walkways, yard cleaning, tree trimming, topping or removal, garage cleaning & debris removal. Insured & Bonded #8189. Jerry 510-410-2427.

GARAGE SALES

HUGE MASSIVE YARD SALE Fri. 11/18 & Sat 11/19, 9am-5pm. Antiques, collectibles, vinyl records, post cards and other old papers, Hallmark ornaments and Xmas items, miniatures, clocks, vintage tools, primitives, oddities & more! 4183 Berdina Road, Castro Valley.

VINYL GARAGE SALE All Genres/ 1000’s of albums. 11/18, noon-5pm, 11/19, 8am-4pm & 11/20, 11am-3pm. 3965 Lindsay Lane, Castro Valley.

GARDENING

*ANYYARD WORK. Cleanups and Maintenance. Free Estimates. Call 510-798-1833.

*NAVA'SCOMPLETE GARDENING: Mowing, trees, cleanup/ hauling. FREE estimates. 510-512-5857

*BEAUTYGARDEN LANDSCAPING Design - Construction - Maintenance. Cleanups, New Lawn, Artificial Grass, Irrigation, Patios, Pathways, Brick, Stone, Concrete Fence/ Decks. Free Estimates! Lic.#925130. 510-691-8852.

www.beautygardenlandscaping.com

JAIME’S GARDENING Maintenance, Trimming, Cleanups, Hauling, Sprinkler Repair/ Timers. FREE Estimates. Insured. 510-299-9583

HANDYMAN SERVICE

Garden service maintenance and cleanup and other services handyman call Jose Cruz 510-798-0682. Professional Plumbing & Custom Remodeling. Licensed/ Bonded. George 510-882-5169, 510-483-7126

Hummingbird Cottage Daycare

HAULING SERVICE

MISC. WANTED

RENTALS/RV SPACES

RV/ Trailer space in San Leandro and Oakland. $900/ month. Call 510-481-9901.

SERVICES

HANDYMAN & CONTRACTORS

You can run a classified ad for a little as $30 a week. Your ad runs in both of our newspapers, the Castro Valley Forum on Wednesday and the San Leandro Times on Thursday. You can also save $5 by placing your ad on our website at castrovalleyforum.com or sanleandrotimes.com. We’ll call you for your credit or debit card info for payment.

To place an ad by phone call Patrick Vadnais at 510-614-1560, Mon-Fri 9 a.m. - 1 p.m.

TREE SERVICE

All real estate advertised in the CASTRO VALLEY FORUM and SAN LEANDRO TIMES is subject to the Federal Fair Housing Act, which makes itillegal to advertise any preference, limitation or discrimination because of race, color, religion, sex, handicap, marital status, national origin or intention to make any such preference, limitation or discrimination.

Race: Wiley vs Price; Chan Leads EBMUD Pack

continued

MAC: ‘EIR is Incomplete’

from

front page Wiley Narrowly Leads in County DA Race

Alameda County voters are currently favoring Terry Wiley to be their next District Attor ney, but the race has tightened up over the last week.

As of Monday, at 5 p.m., Wiley had 115,052 votes or 50.42%. His opponent, Pamela Price generated 113,138 votes or 49.58%. That is a stark difference from election night when Price trailed Wiley by 5,043 votes or 3.36%. Now the differential between the two is 0.84% or 1,914 votes.

Wiley is currently the Chief Assistant District Attorney. Price is a civil rights attor ney. The DA’s seat became available after current District Attorney Nancy O’Malley decided not to seek re-election. She served three terms since 2010.

The DA’s Offce prosecutes criminal and specifc civil cases on behalf of Alameda County residents. The Offce is staffed by approximately 150 attorneys and operates in nine offces around the county.

The election is notable in that the two candidates are both African American,

running to head an offce that has sometimes been criticized by civil rights and community groups seeking a fairer crimi nal justice system.

continued from front page submitted to the County.

Mosaic seeks to demolish an existing 7,500-square-foot ga rage on the property, improve trails and roads, and construct 12 400-square-foot cabins, an 8,500-square-foot dining hall/ meeting area, a 1,025-squarefoot restroom/ shower building, and a 2,600-square-foot staff residence.

6-1, with MAC member Al Padro dissenting.

Developers propose razing an existing duplex and building 13 new townhomes on the site, called the Lorena One Village.

Chan Leads EBMUD

Pack

If election returns continue their trend, April Chan will be the frst Asian-American woman to serve on the East Bay Municipal Utility District (EBMUD) Board of Directors, representing Ward 7.

Ward 7 includes Castro Val ley, portions of San Leandro and Hayward, the communities of Cherryland and Fairview in Alameda County, and portions of western San Ramon in Contra Costa County.

As of Monday, at 5 p.m., April Chan received a total of 8,861 votes (7,147 from Alam eda County and 1,714 from San Ramon residents in Contra Costa County). Matt Turner gathered 7,483 votes (6,333 and 1,150), while San Leandro Councilmember Corina Lopez received 7,354 votes (6,348 and 1,006). While all precincts have reported votes gathered, mail-in ballots continue to be counted.

In a statement this week, Chan expressed her gratitude to the voters.

“This recent election was different and diffcult in so many ways,” Chan said. “And yet, so many people were

incredibly supportive and help ful. The outpouring of support and help from you was both humbling and gratifying. You were businesspeople, laborers, and just plain folks. Every one of you made a difference.”

EBMUD Ward 7 had an open seat because the cur rent Director Frank Mellon announced he would not seek reelection.

Should Chan be certifed, she could be asked to make tough choices about water service in the East Bay. The California Department of Water Resources (DWR) said it expects yet another dry year between now and September 2023.

Report: Drugs, Stolen Property, Resisting Arrest

continued from page 3

Illegal Narcotics Thursday, November 10: at 8:15 a.m., a 30-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of possession of illegal narcotics and related drug paraphernalia. Deputies stopped the man for questioning outside a business on Redwood Road near Less ley Avenue where they discov ered his stash. The man was taken into custody.

Stolen Property Wednesday, November 9: at 5:06 p.m., deputies arrested a 45-year-old woman with no permanent residence on sus picion of possession of stolen property and violating a re straining order. The woman was stopped on the Boulevard near Park Way. Deputies report she was within 100 yards of a business she was ordered to stay away from.

LEGAL NOTICES

FILED OCT 20, 2022

MELISSA WILK County Clerk ALAMEDA COUNTY

By----------, Deputy FILE NO. 592845

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS

NAME STATEMENT

Pursuant to Business and Professions Code

Sections 17900-17930

The name of the business(es):

Holistic Wellness with Janie located at 17531 Dorson Ln., Castro Valley, CA 94546. in Ala meda County, is hereby registered by the fol lowing owner(s): M Jane Greathouse West, located at 17531 Dorson Ln., Castro Valley, CA 94546. This business is conducted by an Individual. This business commenced N/A /s/ M Jane Greathouse West

This statement was filed with the County Clerk of Alameda County on date indicated by file stamp above.

Expires OCT 19, 2027

NOV 2, 9, 16, 23, 2022 0539-CVF

FILED OCT 19, 2022

MELISSA WILK County Clerk

ALAMEDA COUNTY

By----------, Deputy

FILE NO. 592830

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS

NAME STATEMENT

Pursuant to Business and Professions Code Sections 17900-17930

The name of the business(es):

Rancho San Lorenzo Publishers, located at 18736 Brickell Way, Castro Valley, CA 94546. in Alameda County, is hereby registered by the following owner(s): Rancho San Lorenzo Publishers, LLC, 18736 Brickell Way, Castro Valley, CA 94546. This business is conduct ed by a Limited Liability Company. This busi ness commenced 6/22/22 /s/ Richard Kelly

This statement was filed with the County Clerk of Alameda County on date indicated by file stamp above.

Expires OCT 18, 2027

NOV 09, 16, 23, 30, 2022 0538-SLT

Resisted Arrest

Monday, November 7: at 11:21 p.m., a 36-year-old CV woman was arrested on suspicion of re sisting arrest. Deputies were in vestigating an incident in front of a drug store on Castro Valley Boulevard near Marshall Street when they came across the woman. The woman refused to cooperate and became confron tational. Deputies handcuffed her and took her into custody.

Drugs in Her Pocket Monday, November 7: at 9:39 p.m., a 42-year-old woman with no permanent residence was arrested on suspicion of possession of methamphet amine drugs and related para phernalia. Deputies stopped the woman for questioning outside a business on Redwood Road near Castro Valley Boulevard where they found her stash. The woman was taken into custody.

STATEMENT OF ABANDONMENT OF USE OF FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT

FILE NUMBER 567587

FILED OCT 14, 2022

MELISSA WILK County Clerk

ALAMEDA COUNTY

By----------, Deputy

FILE NO. 592729

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS

NAME STATEMENT

Pursuant to Business and Professions Code Sections 17900-17930

The name of the business(es): Kumon Castro Valley East, located at 3959 East Casro Valley Blvd Castro Valley, CA 94552. 17777 Camelot Ln, Castro Valley CA 94546. in Alameda County, is hereby registered by the following owner(s): Amar jyoti Koul, 17777 Camelot Ln, Castro Valley CA 94546. This business is conducted by a limited Liability Companyl. This business commenced N/A /s/ Amarjyoti Koul

This statement was filed with the County Clerk of Alameda County on date indicated by file stamp above.

Expires OCT 13, 2027

NOV 17, SEP 24, DEC 1, 8, 2022 0534-CVF

The following person has abandoned the use of the fictitious business name: anaisabel interpreting, at 4848 Seven Hills Road Road, Castro Valley CA 94549, in Alameda County. Full name of registrant is: Ana Isabel Beltran-Wells, at 4848 Seven Hills Road Castro Valley, CA 94549.

The Fictitious Business Name Statement anaisabel interpreting, was filed on 01/15/2020 in the county of Alameda.

Original File Number 567587. I declare that all information in this statement is true and correct. (A registrant who declares as true information, which he or she knows to be false, is guilty of a crime). This statement was filed with the County clerk of Alameda County on: top right stamp date. NOTICEThis fictitious name statement expires five years from the date it was filed on, in the office of the County Clerk. A new Fictitious Business Name Statement must be filed prior to that date. The filing of this statement does not of itself authorize the use in this state of a fictitious business name in viola tion of the rights of another under federal, state or common law (see Section 14400, et seq., B&P Code.) This statement was filed with the County Clerk-Recorder of Alameda County on 10/24/2022.

The conversation was largely stilted as the EIR was the only subject that could be directly addressed. Still, speakers expressed concerns about factors including wildfre risks, water needs, pesticides, and more.

MAC member Chuck Moore said that he felt the EIR as presented was lacking.

“There are a lot of questions and no answers,” said Moore. “This EIR is very incomplete.”

But not everyone opposed the camp. Earlier this month Castro Valley Unifed School District Superintendent Parvin Ahmadi wrote a letter express ing “enthusiastic support” for the Mosaic Project, saying that Mosaic’s “mission is aligned with our school district’s vision and mission.”

Ahmadi further said that the district was excited that CVUSD students would be able to take advantage of Mo saic’s programs.

The project was frst pro posed in 2020 and public com ment is open until November 21. After the EIR is fnalized and comments entered into the record, County staff planner Sonia Urzua says they expect it to be an action item for the MAC in a month or so.

In other land use news, the MAC approved an applica tion to allow a large parcel of land at 3621 and 3533 Lorena Avenue near the intersection with Santa Maria Avenue to be rezoned from Planned Development to Residential Mixed Use.

The rezoning was approved

Public speaker Bruce King expressed concerns about an initial lack of professional land scaping plans and a possible shortage of trees. Others said they were worried traffc and parking from nearby Castro Valley High School would be negatively impacted, but the MAC eventually gave the rezoning a go-ahead.

“It’s defnitely one of our higher-density projects,” said MAC member Ken Carbone. “But I think it’s going to be a good project.”

The MAC also unanimously approved an application to sell alcohol in an existing shopping center at 3300 East Castro Valley Boulevard. “Crossroads Specialty Foods” will now be allowed to sell beer and wine.

The MAC said that the shopping center needs some upgrades overall- namely better lighting and safety measures and added that they’d like the landlord to come to the MAC in six months with some upgrades.

But the MAC added that they didn’t want to block the store’s Conditional Use Permit in the meantime, saying that alcohol sales will give the shop a boost (alcohol sales are estimated to make up about 4 percent of the store’s overall sales) in a location that has struggled in the past.

Finally, the MAC also unan imously approved their 2023 meeting calendar- a schedule of 34 meetings (24 Land Use and 10 General Purpose) that will run from Monday, January 9 through Monday, December 18, 2023. Land Use meetings will typically be scheduled for the second and fourth Mondays of the month, while General Purpose meetings will take place on the third Monday

Parade: Ribbon Winners

continued from page 3 of Santa Claus and Mrs. Claus.

The Theme of this year’s pa rade was “Honoring our First Responders” with nearly every entry honoring frst responders.

Big ribbon winners in the parade included: Chabot Elementary School for the “School Spirit Gold Award”, Rowell Ranch Rodeo for the “Holiday Spirit Gold Award”, Classy Canine Wiggle Rumps for “Best Use of Lights Gold Award”, and Jen’s Cupcakes and Parties for “Best Musical

Entry Gold Award”.

The Castro Valley and Eden Area Chamber of Commerce hosted the event, which is cel ebrating its 10th Anniversary.

The Chamber said it was grate ful to TMC Productions, Halo Branding, and all the sponsors and volunteers for making the event possible.

“No word can describe everything I’m feeling,” Dayna Speed said. “Incredible grat itude to this community and all involved in this amazing event.”

Terry Wiley Pamela Price April Chan

LETTERS

TO THE EDITOR FILESFORFORUM@GMAIL.COM

Biological Reality Does Not Fit Definition of Bigotry

Dear Editor,

Ms. Forstater’s declarations are based SOLELY on facts - not “unreasonable belief”. You accuse her of “hatred” and “prejudice” without basis. You demonstrate intolerance (definition - “unwillingness to accept views or beliefs that differ from one’s own”) by ascribing false motivations to those you disagree with. The rationale for her decision-making - called “biological reality” - does NOT fit the definition of “bigotry”. Stop creating false narratives. Do better!

We have all worked with people we disagree with. Only in Pride-Land is that basis for economic blackmail. Suppose I am fat, I believe that’s good, and you say it’s bad. You refuse to affirm my (unsubstantiated) beliefs about my biology (evidence to the contrary be damned). So you’re fired - for speaking the truth!

Yes, LGBTQ’s tend to have shorter, more problematic lifespans. Have you studied this? It would be naive to conclude (without examination) it’s 100% due to external factors.

If archaeologists dig up our bones next millennium, they’ll write a paper about two homo sapiens males who lived 1,000 years ago. They won’t consult the Supreme Court. They will base their conclusions solely on testable biological evidence and the fact that gender does not change after death. You call this “deadnaming” (pun intended!), scientists call it “objectivity”.

So what’s the REAL issue here? Some define gender based on biology, and biological reality informs belief. Some recently re-defined gender based on declaration, that belief somehow creates reality. One side accuses the other of bigotry, hatred, and fear - when it’s nothing more than a different rationale. “Pride” models and promotes intolerance this way. The LGBTQ playbook seems very limited indeed.

I see you double-downed on the name-calling. I will refrain from personally insulting or persecuting anyone who believes differently than me. That’s called “tolerance”. “Pride” practitioners have no room for it.

–Stacy Spink, Castro Valley

Thanks to the Community Algorithmic Tribalism

Dear Editor,

Many people choose November as a time to give thanks for their good fortune. Our family doesn’t celebrate the traditional thanksgiving holiday out of respect for the indigenous people on whose land we are living. But I am personally grateful and want to thank the community around us for the support you have shown to Bad Business Model Bikes. This month we reached the remarkable milestone of over 700 bikes donated, which means that at least 700 people have given us their bikes to restore and provide to others at no cost. Hundreds of other people have donated to our parts fund. Amazing. We are not an actual business or an official non-profit, but each week and sometimes every day, somebody in Castro Valley and the surrounding areas reaches out to us with their donations. In a time when finding joy can be difficult, we get to witness and experience the “good” in our generous community all the time. I can’t list everyone who has helped us in just 300 words, but I can thank some of the standouts: Thank you to Chris Padavana and the Eden Bicycle team. Thank you to Ben Schweng and the team at Cyclepath in Hayward. Thank you to the Trek Bicycle shops in Dublin and Livermore. Thank you to Castro Valley Rotary. Thank you to Joanne Lauer, Mike & Jen Tapia-Smith, Murline Monat, Linda Saxton, Barbara Becker-McCallister, Susi Baer Hildebrand and hundreds of other parts fund donors. Thank you to Roberto Souza of CV News for helping to spread the word. Thank you to the amazing people at AIDS/Lifecycle who teach us that anyone can make a difference in the lives of others. Thank you to Kris Kupferman for joining the BBMB team. And finally Thank you to mi corazon Ari Huitzilopochtli for your guidance and support and inspiration. Your hard work for diversity and inclusion has made Bad Business Model Bikes a better place for everyone.

–Billy Bradford, Castro Valley

The Facts of Life

The statement “you cannot change your sex” is a statement of fact, has nothing to do with hatred or phobia. It belongs to the same category as “you cannot change your race” or “you cannot change your species.” Another example, declaring that you do not like or you do not “believe” in gravitation will not make jumping from a cliff a safe endeavor. We are living in a world with physical and biological laws that are immune to our liking or disliking.

–Slawek Smyl, Castro Valley

The lead up to the midterm elections was frought with misinformation and narrowly focused advertising, leaving us blind to other’s points of view, and in many cases reality. One major culprit in this media disaster has been social media, and on-line political sites that use algorithms to identify search content and direct the user to similar sites and information outlets. Such highly focused searches only serve to reinforce our existing beliefs and point of view, leaving us blind to alternatives. Marshal McLuhan, in his treatise: The Media is the Message, coined the term “Global Village.” He predicted a global consciousness would evolve via media. However, he noted that the quickness of new electronic media has decentralized our consciousness rather than enlarged it, creating multiple tribal existences, which is quite evident in politics today. In the case of social media the tapping on “See more like this” has created an algorithmic tribalism. It behoves us all to be wary of such searches. They may be helpful within the constraints of consumerism, but dangerous when it comes to ideology and politics.

–Robert Thomas, Castro Valley

Edward (Ed) Bovee

October 24, 1925 ~ November 2, 2022

Ed Bovee was a resident of Castro Valley for 67 years. He was born in Reed Point, Montana, attending a one-room schoolhouse with one teacher. He often reflected on his early days during the depression. With his typical humor, it was fascinating to hear Ed tell stories of how they made ends meet and the character building this time period provided.

After graduating from high school, he enlisted in the Navy Air Corps in 1943 and served during WWII as a Radio Gunner in the SB2C Helldiver Bomber.

He moved to CA with his family and all of their belongings in a 1934 Ford sedan in March 1947.

Ed met the love of his life, Bonnie, and married her Sep 4, 194 9 and they had 4 children.

He was proud to work for Underground Construction company for over 45 years, retiring as a Safety Engineer in 1977.

Ed set an example of love, family devotion and Christian values. As part of the Greatest Generation, he was a true patriot and proud of his country. One highlight was getting selected to fly to Washington DC with the “Bay Area Honor Flight” in 2019 to visit the memorials to all Veterans, dedicated to honor their service and sacrifices. He was amazed at the experience and felt truly humbled.

He was always helping others and the first to offer a hand to friends as well as strangers. He was known for his positive energy, his big smile, his never ending jokes, and his strong Christian beliefs and service to his community and church. He was very pr oud of his four children, Michael, Michelle, twins Guy and Mark, his five grandchildren, Ja son, Karrie, Shane, Breanne and Brett, and his two great grandchildren, Logan and Baylee.

Ed was longing to join Bonnie since her death in July this year and they are now joyously reunited.

There will be a Celebration of Life on Nov 19 at 3pm at the Castro Valley Church of the Nazarene.

Thank You to Karl Hodges Save Lives, Drive Sober

Thank you to Karl Hodges who nailed it in his recent letter to the editor. His thoughtful comments on the power of fear, the tenacity of lies, and Elon Musk resonated with me. I would no longer consider buying a Tesla and I hope there are millions of us who feel the same.

–Anita Dance, Castro Valley

The holiday season comes with family gatherings, social time with friends, and office parties. These joyful events can lead to life-altering consequences, like drunken driving. When I was 16 years old in 1992, a drunken driver hit me. I had a four month coma, broken bones, paralysis and brain injuries. My gait and speech are affected and I lost my driving and hearing abilities. For 30+ years, I read lips and cannot enjoy holiday music anymore. Planning to take 580 to attend a holiday gathering? Please make smart decisions now if you plan to drink: Don’t drive drunk. My message to drive sober will never get old because it saves lives. Having a sober driver is a superb way to begin 2023.

–Lori Martin, Tracy

Sabina Hansen (née Milward) passed away peacefully on October 4th. She strongly and optimistically fought cancer for 16 months. She was lovingly referred to as the 1960’s character in the movie Pollyanna, and true to her nature, she always remained positive and upbeat.

Sabina was raised in Castro Valley with her three siblings and met her loving husband and soulmate of 44 years, Steve Hansen. They were high school sweethearts and shortly after graduating from Castro Valley Highschool in 1976, they got married. Together they not only built their successful business, Hansen Landscape Contractor, and a few others, but they raised three wonderful children. Sabina was fiercely devoted to her family and took immense delight in creating absolute magic for everyone around birthdays and holidays. She dazzled and warmed the hearts of all with her decorating for every holiday! Sabina enjoyed antiquing, crafting and baking, and her birthday cake creations were always a highlight at each family party. She loved her cat Bandit and made sure to brush her to the tune of 100 strokes once a day. In recent years, she took great joy in spending time with her grandsons, Hudson and Charlie. They will miss their Mimi very much.

As a matriarch, a source of comfort, a pillar of strength for all those around her, she will be sorely missed by all who loved her. She will be lovingly and forever remembered by her husband Steve, her children Jessica, Blair, and Lacey, their spouses, her grandchildren Hudson and Charlie, her sisters Elaine Zappettini and Marcia Dixon, and sister-in-law Terry vanEck. She is joined and reunited in eternal rest by her parents James and Margery Milward and brother Doug vanEck.

In lieu of flowers, please send donations to the American Cancer Society. We thank the Stanford Oncology department in Pleasanton and give much appreciation to the nurse Jasmeet, who made her weekly treatment visits lighter and more bearable with her humor. An informal gathering will be held in her honor. Should you wish for more details, please email Hansen.steve@comcast.net

Sabina Hansen

ATHLETES OF THE WEEK

Hannah John Completes Eagle Project

Redwood Christian High School Senior Hannah John recently completed her Eagle Project and her Court of Honor is schedule for January 8, 2023. Hannah is a member of Troop 2789 of Castro Valley and her Scoutmaster is Blaine Emmons. Hannah is the daughter of Pramod and Grace John of Hayward, and her life goals include studying Envi ronmental Sciences. She has attended Redwood Christian Schools since kindergarten.

Our Athletes of the Week are the U-12 Girls “Mighty Waffes” team of the Castro Valley Recreational Soccer Club. The Mighty Waffes had a successful Fall season and will fnish the season with a recreation al tournament in Davis, CA this December. The Mighty Waffes are coached by Marce, Jeff and Monique.

The members of the team are from left

to right in the photo: (Back Row): Coach Marce, Madeline Zasa, Brooke Robinson, Riley Owen, Coach Jeff, Emma Lau, Korey Latham-Grayson, Coach Monique; (Middle row): Rachel Lee Murry, Rebecca Seymour, Ramsey Hansen, Hannah Leong, Vivian McNeill; (Front Row): Neera Jain, Sofa Lim, Cadance Yip; (Not in photo: Sophie Harris)

Hannah’s Eagle Project took 152 hours to complete from planning to assembly, included designing, recruiting and supervising friends and family to assist her in the building of two 6’ x 2’ x 3’ Redwood corrugated steel planter boxes for Redwood Christian Middle School and High School. The two mobile planter boxes act as barricades for the school’s main doors to prevent and de ter any strangers from entering the campus while school is in session. The planter boxes are also environmentally con scious and low maintenance as they house a variety of succulents.

Hannah selected this project as “at the time, our campus did not have the interior gates that we do now so I wanted to help make our school a little safer.”

Fields: Will Beneft Students, Public

continued from page 2 collaborating to serve the pub lic good,” said Superintendent Parvin Ahmadi. “Ultimately, the signifcant improvements to the felds at Canyon Middle School will beneft students

for generations and the public, who have access to state-ofthe-art felds and facilities during non-school hours.”

The two sides agreed to a 20-year commitment to maintain the upgrades after the

improvements are operational. CVUSD and HARD said they will be required to gather fund ing to keep the felds safe and usable between the years 2032 and 2042 when the agreement ends.

As for what was the most challenging part of her project, it “was putting all my ideas

together as I had put two de signs together to make a whole new design for the planters. Having never made structures so big, especially two of them, it was hard to assemble. There were a lot of unknowns to the outcome and many on-thespot decisions that could only be made while assembling it. The other equally challenging part was realistically thinking about how much time and effort would be needed for the project from me and others and creating a time line on how to accomplish my project.”

“My parents were sup

portive and encouraged me throughout the whole process despite how long it took. Those who helped me with reading my revisions, answering all my questions, and guiding me through the paperwork were also a big encouragement to me as they were dedicated in helping me succeed.”

Hannah completed the project in twelve weeks and appreciated the assistance of Stella Chang, Dylan Seu, Eric Ma, Scott Wong, Nolan Quiroz, Nathanael Butler, Alan Stirling, Pramod John, and Grace John.

Creekside School Site Council

Creekside

The Matt Wilhite Team is proud to sponsor Athletes of the Week Mighty Waffes

Middle School Principal Susan Shih announced Clare Henderson (at right) as peer-elect to the School Site Council (SSC) as the 6th Grade student representative in October. Clare will join 7th Grader Eli Lubensky (mid dle) and 8th Grader Claire Brewer (at left) to serve as student representatives on the SSC at Creekside Middle School. The SSC is an elected committee of parents, students, and staff members who work with the principal to develop, review, and monitor the school improvement programs and budget. These elected student representatives will have an opportunity to give direct input in the development of the goals in the School Plan for Student Achievement.

RCHS Senior Hannah John with her fnished project. See how it all came together at: mycvforum.com